Highland Daytona Racing issues

[BossCER]

Dylan,
I'm curious to know if these things were brought to the attention of the guys at HDR so they could be rectified before you posted. If the problems were not brought to the attention of HDR, how fair is it to make such a post w/out giving a Mfg. the opportunity to correct bugs a basically a brand new vehicle.
Now, with that said, if the problems were in fact brought to the attention of HDR, and nothing was done, maybe the post is justified.

Just my opinion,

Chris

[dscott]

Why do you post after more than a year and a half? Why do you want to discredit a company when you don't have the history from HDR? If there really were problems there is a proper way to handle them and proceed. Your first post on this site and it's bashing. I have worked on many different mfg's cars over the years and I sure don't post negative information about the companies. Solutions are generally worked out with the Mfg especially on a new car.

I have talked to Rick Ellis about this and it's funny the customer had nothing but rave reviews on the car. Maybe you should ask the customer about the rear end that he blew up by doing massive launchs and burnouts in the parking lot. Maybe ask the customer why he insisted on having a tire that was too tall for the car knowing that they would rub.

There's always 2 sides to every story. Your approach isn't right. If the customer is so upset with HDR why doesn't he post the complaints? Sounds like you did ok with the customer unless you did all the work for nothing, which I doubt. Nice business you have. I hope none of my customers bring anything to you for repair.

Don Scott, 25 year shop owner, over 100 turnkey cars built, engines built up to 1100 horsepower, in-shop dyno, fully equipped welding shop, full upholstery shop, R&D department, Mold facilty for 13 different models, drag racer since 1971, crew chief on NHRA super gas 1969 Mustang and 1985 T-Bird. Ran C Gas car in the 70's, Owner of wissota Modifed # 77, Legend # 77, Track steward at local asphalt track, Member of BBB and NFIB, board member of my church, sing in the praise and worship group, brother-in-law is county commisioner, I know the police chief personally, member of several boards such as this one, tech advisor to Kit Car builder magazine, several articles published, new book publisher, avid photographer.

Does this sound ok? I thought since you felt it necessary to tell us the merits of your background I would list a few of mine.

Don

[Chics LI]

I am responding to the post made by Downshift1 about HDR.
I saw this car just after it was completed and painted. I was visiting Rick at HDR after I had sent my car to him for some upgrades. This HDR was built just after mine and had some custom modifications different than mine and looked fantastic. I especially thought the silver with green stripes was a great combination, almost did the same but went with silver and blue stripes.
Now for the workmanship. I am pleased with my car and everyone who has seen my car thought it was top notch. Tubeframe, no bump steer,super suspension and attention to detail. I would say the car is built to aircraft quality standard. I wanted a racecar designed for the track but usable on the street and that is what I got.
As for the headers and sidepipes, big deal. I spray them with high temp. paint. I too had my engine running too rich and Rick changed out my carb.(NC) I know that there is no way you recieved car with no alt. belt. Valve covers leaking, big deal cork sometimes leak. I replaced mine with Earls gaskets after I upgraded my valve covers to Rick' custom covers. My steering shaft is fine and tight as a drum with no play at all.Coolant overflow hose broke, big deal, replace it with a piece of gas line. Rear tires hit body, readjust your coilsprings.
You are complaining about some pretty petty stuff.
I realize there are two sides to every story but this looks like someone is making a mountain out of a mole hill. I get the feeling there is more to this storey than is being told.
I have known Rick Ellis for years, from when I first called to ask about his cars, through the build process, upgrades, advise on some things I would modify etc. No car is perfect. If I had a problem I let him know and it was taken care of ASAP. Never had a problem with him or his company. I trust his car building ability and think his honor is above reproach.
I don't know if your car was abused or trashed or what. I have pushed my car and have had no problems. Minor stuff big deal, even that , Rick was quick to tend to.
If anyone has any doubts contact me. I have no axe to grind only the utmost respect for Rick and yes before you ask, he is my friend and I will stick up for him and his integrity.
Did you try to resolve your issues with Rick before you came here to knock him.This may have been the way to go.

Tom S.